The recent revelation of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 with an October release date has been somewhat overshadowed by a more nostalgic rumor among Call of Duty fans: the potential remasters of Black Ops 1 and Black Ops 2. This speculation stems from the games receiving new ratings from South Korea's Game Rating and Administration Committee, equivalent to the ESRB or PEGI in other regions.
Quick Facts
| Publisher | Activision |
|---|---|
| Platform(s) | Xbox One, Xbox Series, PC (Steam) |
| Price | ['$39.99', '$59.99'] |
The ratings, first spotted on Reddit's r/GamingLeaksAndRumours subreddit, show both Black Ops titles with a receipt date of May 21, 2026, and a deliberation date of May 29, 2026. Notably, during a recent Steam sale for older Call of Duty titles, the Black Ops games were conspicuously absent from the discounts, further fueling the remaster speculation. Currently, Black Ops is priced at $39.99 and Black Ops 2 at $59.99 on Steam.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Receipt Date | May 21, 2026 |
| Deliberation Date | May 29, 2026 |
| Current Price (Black Ops) | $39.99 |
| Current Price (Black Ops 2) | $59.99 |
All Eyes on the Xbox Games Showcase
With Summer Game Fest underway and the Xbox Games Showcase scheduled for June 7, anticipation is high. While Modern Warfare 4 is expected to have a presence, the community's focus is on whether Black Ops 1 and Black Ops 2 remasters will be announced. Currently, both titles are backwards compatible on Xbox One and Xbox Series consoles but are not available on Game Pass. Their absence on current PlayStation hardware and the Nintendo Switch underscores the potential for a multi-platform re-release.
Historically, Activision has handled older titles in various ways. The original Modern Warfare was remastered and included in the Deluxe Edition of Infinite Warfare before a standalone release, which notably included multiplayer. In contrast, Modern Warfare 2's remaster was limited to its single-player campaign. The approach for Black Ops 1 and Black Ops 2, if remastered, remains speculative, ranging from pre-order bonuses to full game bundles.
Community Reaction and Speculations
The community's eagerness for Black Ops 1 and Black Ops 2 remasters is palpable, especially given the mixed reception of Black Ops 7. Fans are hopeful for a thorough update that could include enhanced graphics, potentially updated multiplayer modes, and compatibility with modern platforms. The success of previous remasters within the franchise suggests there's a viable market for these classics, especially if done right.
- Enhanced graphics
- Updated multiplayer modes
- Compatibility with modern platforms
Given Activision's past strategies, several scenarios are possible: a bundled release of both games with updated features, standalone remasters with potential season pass content, or even their inclusion as a bonus with a future Call of Duty title. The Xbox Games Showcase on June 7 is poised to either confirm these speculations or redirect the community's attention back to Modern Warfare 4.
Looking Ahead
As the gaming community waits with bated breath for the Xbox Games Showcase, the potential for Black Ops 1 and Black Ops 2 remasters hangs in the balance. Whether Activision opts for a remaster, re-release, or something entirely different, the impact on the Call of Duty fanbase and the broader gaming community will undoubtedly be significant. One thing is certain: the next few weeks will be crucial in satisfying the nostalgia-driven hopes of long-time Call of Duty enthusiasts.
